All Things Noa Essengue

I agree with your Ayton comments regarding Cronin … and if they want Ayton closer to the hoop and dunking, then get him there. He’s good at the midrange, so that’s part of his diet which is fine. We’ve seen guys taking practically no mid range and almost exclusively putting up 3’s and within about 3’ so coaching matters. If Ayton isn’t playing effectively in the next year, then let him go. Given what he makes and given Clingan increasing his minutes, the choices get obvious.

I’m more concerned about them making the right call on Ant in a timely manner (as in right away).

 

Agreed

 

Now, since this thread is about Noa Essengue — perhaps my favorite target at 11 — a recent comment by Mike Richman to Tyler Rucker (of No Ceilings) got my attention. Richman really likes Essengue’s production this early and against pro’s even though Richman said he can’t dribble or shoot … there was some hyperbole and humor from him.

The point can get lost, but Essengue is becoming increasingly productive and his physical abilities ARE impressive in spite of what he currently lacks. What he can become once he develops those beginning versions of skills and with getting his NBA body is a ‘big swing’.

I look first to a player’s movement both in space and in a phone booth. Their feet. Then to a guy’s activity and what it produces. To one’s court sense and what is done with it. Opportunism, connectedness, focus.

My favorite Blazer currently is Camara. When the clock is running, so is he. He’s not a stand around looking kind of guy. Essengue isn’t quite that, but he’s young and moves much more smoothly and easily than guys of his height. Just on movement at that age, he looks different and crosses a threshold (IMHO) for being — potentially — a serious dude.

 

Completely agree.
Given the likelihood that he's going to be gone by 11 - Im leaning more towards preferring a trade down scenario.

I like a lot of players in this draft. Noa is the only one (outside the top 5) that Id be excited about

 

lot of conflicting 'reports' but it's probably quibbles; only 1-1.5 inches difference generally

 

Those are from last year when he was 17

The measurements I posted were taken today

 

As I said weeks ago, Essengue won't be available at 11. He'd be my favorite prospect.

 

If you like Camara, Carter Bryant says he watches him and patterns his game after him.
If you like Deni, then Demin is your man as he says he patters his game after Avdija.

Interesting that two players in the Draft are trying to be like Blazers.

 

When was the last time that the Blazers have forwards who draftees look to?
Fascinating.